The current approach to diagnosing IPF requires careful review of high-resolution CT scan images of the lungs integrated with other data from history and physical exam and pulmonary function testing. Unfortunately, many patients are left with an uncertain diagnosis and require invasive testing such as a surgical lung biopsy. Current best practice has been to proceed with … [Read more...]
Getting Through The Holidays
Each year we build up the holidays to be a tremendous event. We have grand hopes that everyone will get along, the food will be perfect and all the gifts will be loved. The reality is that the holiday season is very stressful in many different ways. Patients with chronic lung disease feel the same pressure to find great gifts and be part of the preparation. The increased … [Read more...]
How Will I Afford My IPF Medication?
Many of my patients that are on treatment with either OFEV or Esbriet receive assistance from Caring Voices Coalition. As of the end of 2016, Caring Voices will no longer be supporting IPF patients. This has created tremendous anxiety and stress as many patients are facing a many thousand dollar out-of-pocket cost to obtain access to their IPF treatments. The reason behind … [Read more...]
Frustrated with Poor Service from Medical Equipment Providers
Let’s start with a brief introduction to DME. Durable Medical Equipment includes a broad range of medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators and tanks, wheelchairs, CPAP machines and many others. Under traditional Medicare, part B covers 80% of the cost of such equipment and the patient covers the remaining 20%. If patients have a secondary insurance or “MediGap” … [Read more...]
Stay Connected
Chronic illness like Pulmonary Fibrosis can lead to many important changes in your life. Activities that you used to enjoy can become more difficult or even impossible to perform. As a physician who practices in Arizona, many of my patients are or were ardent golfers. As their illness progressed they often gave up golfing. This led to loss of connection with their golfing … [Read more...]